HIDDEN PARADISE ON AN ISLAND
The trip began in Banderas Bay, a corner of the Pacific where the sea and the mountains meet in a green and blue embrace. Before departing for the Marietas Islands, we decided to enjoy a special breakfast, one that would prepare us for the day and at the same time allow us to connect with the natural essence of the destination.
Our choice was Cosecha Farm to Table, a restaurant nestled in the heart of Rancho Orgánico El Edén. From the moment we set foot in the place, we knew this was no ordinary place: birdsong replaced the urban bustle, fruit trees surrounded the area with their cool shade, and the aroma of freshly roasted coffee wafted through the air, inviting us to a leisurely awakening.
The restaurant, with its rustic-chic design, seemed an homage to the land: carved wooden tables, handmade textiles in every corner, and large windows framing a lush landscape. We opted for a bowl of fresh fruit with homemade granola and local honey, accompanied by a revitalising green juice and a café de altura, whose flavour was deep and earthy. Each bite was a reminder of the purpose of the place: respectfully harvested ingredients, conscious cooking and a harmony between man and nature.
We savoured our breakfast slowly, enjoying the tranquillity of the surroundings. We knew the day would take us on an adventure, but at that moment, time seemed to stand still amidst the sounds of the countryside and the warm morning breeze.
With our stomachs satisfied and our minds clear, we climbed into the car and set off for Punta de Mita. The drive was a transition between scenery: we drove past Cruz de Huanacaxtle, a picturesque fishing village with its modern marina, and continued along the coast until we reached Punta de Mita, where the ocean opens up into an infinite blue.
SAILING TO A NATURAL SANCTUARY
In Punta de Mita, we headed to the boatmen’s cooperative, a group of local fishermen who also offer tours to the Marietas Islands. We chose a tour with them, knowing that their knowledge of the sea and the environment would make the experience even more authentic.
From the dock, we boarded the boat and were soon out to sea. The sea breeze caressed our faces and the sun was shining overhead. As we moved further offshore, the water took on deeper and more mysterious hues. The Marietas Islands appeared in the distance, like a group of stone guardians emerging from the ocean, shaped by time and nature.
Suddenly, a jet of water emerged a few metres from the boat. Humpback whales. Their majestic silhouettes broke the surface gracefully, leaving trails of foam in their wake. For a few seconds, the world seemed to stand still as we watched them glide through the water, exhaling powerful plumes of air and plunging back into the deep ocean, best of all captured on my camera.
HIDDEN PARADISE SNORKELLING
This archipelago, protected as a National Park, is a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. From the boat, we observed cliffs where hundreds of seabirds rested, among them the peculiar blue-footed booby bird, whose mating dance looked like something out of a rehearsed choreography.
BACK ON LAND: A FEAST IN PUNTA DE MITA
After so many emotions, hunger made its appearance and we headed for Zicatela, a restaurant where the cuisine of Oaxaca and Nayarit merge in a feast of flavours. We were accompanied by chef Héctor Leiva, who welcomed us with a warm smile and shared the story behind his culinary proposal, based on ancestral techniques and local products. We chose a shrimp tamale in coastal sauce, a grilled octopus with black mole and a fresh seafood tlayuda.
Each dish was an explosion of flavour, a tribute to Mexico’s gastronomic roots with a contemporary twist. In between bites, we enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere of the place, with the sea breeze enveloping the terrace and the sound of the sea as a musical background.
With our stomachs satisfied and our hearts filled with memories of the sea, we climbed into the car and headed back to our accommodation, the Dreams & Secrets Hotel. The sun still lit up the landscape, tinting the sky with shades of gold and orange as we drove along the coastal road.
DREAMS & SECRETS: LUXURY AND RELAXATION ON THE SEAFRONT
Upon arrival at Dreams & Secrets, we were greeted by an atmosphere of elegance and comfort. This all-inclusive resort, located on one of the most exclusive beaches of the Riviera Nayarit, is an oasis of tranquillity where every detail is designed for absolute relaxation.
From the lobby, with its modern architecture by architect Sordo Madaleno, with panoramic sea views, we could perceive the relaxing atmosphere of the place. Large infinity pools, tropical gardens and direct access to a private beach made this hotel the perfect end to a day of adventure.
Our suite was a luxurious retreat with a private terrace and large windows that allowed natural light to fill the space. Before retiring to our room, we decided to explore a little more of the hotel. We walked through the open corridors, letting ourselves be carried away by the sea breeze and the atmosphere.
By the sea breeze and the sophisticated atmosphere of the place. Among its dining options, the resort offers international specialty restaurants, poolside bars and gourmet beachfront experiences.
THE END OF OUR JOURNEY
My first activity early in the morning was a hike to an incredible virgin beach very close to town. We walked to Playa Norte along the beach, and just upon reaching the cliff, the ascent began.
Playa Malpaso: After a 30-minute walk among lianas and ferns, I discovered a secret cave with shining stalactites. Upon exiting, the deserted beach awaited me: sand mixed with shells and hundreds of crabs among the rocks.
An incredible beach, with giant red paper trees and parotas standing out from the rest of the vegetation—a perfect destination if you enjoy camping.
